Main Menu

Diamond Jubilee trees unveiled

Merton Council have unveiled five Black Poplar trees in places suggested by residents to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee this year.

Last year, Merton Council called on residents for their suggestions on where to plant the trees in Mitcham, Morden, Wimbledon, Raynes Park and Colliers Wood. The winning locations, where the trees were planted in December 2011, have been unveiled by Leader of the Council, Councillor Stephen Alambritis and Mayor of Merton, Councillor David Williams, as well as members of the cross-party working group and ward councillors. The locations are Sir Joseph Hood Memorial Playing Fields, Ravensbury Park, Three Kings Pond, Wandle Park and Durnsford Recreation Ground.

All suggestions were considered by a special working group consisting of a representative from each of the political parties in the borough, council officers and the Queen’s Deputy Lieutenant for Merton, The Right Honourable Sir John Wheeler, who decided on the final locations for each of the trees.

Mayor of Merton, Councillor David Williams, said: “I’m glad to be part of unveiling these beautiful trees and I’m even happier that the local community decided where they should be planted. It’s a great way to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee as the Black Poplars are the Queen’s favourite species of tree.’

Merton Council cabinet member for community and culture, Councillor Nick Draper, said: “Getting residents to take part in helping us choose the locations of the trees was a good way of involving everyone in the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. I’m delighted that these slow-growing trees have been planted in such wonderful locations, and hope that in time they will add grace and beauty to each area of the borough.”